JAPAN DOMINATES AUSTRALIA 4-0 IN SHEBELIEVES CUP OPENER

Houston, TX —Sam Mbonu

 Japan thrashed Australia 4-0 to make a commanding statement in their SheBelieves Cup opener in a dominant display at Shell Energy Stadium. A brace from Mina Tanaka and goals from Maika Hamano and Moeka Minami sealed a comfortable victory for Japan, as they outclassed the Matildas in all areas of the pitch.

Tanaka Shines in the First Half

Japan wasted no time asserting its authority, breaking the deadlock in just the 6th minute. Mina Tanaka capitalized on a defensive lapse, slotting home a clinical finish to give her side an early lead. The striker doubled Japan’s advantage in the 32nd minute, finishing off a well-worked attacking move to make it 2-0 before halftime.

Japan Completes the Rout

The second half saw Japan continue their dominance, with Maika Hamano adding a third goal in the 52nd minute, effectively putting the game out of reach for Australia. The Matildas struggled to generate meaningful attacking threats, while Japan controlled possession and dictated the tempo.

The final blow came in the 75th minute, as Moeka Minami got on the scoresheet with a well-placed finish, sealing the emphatic 4-0 win.

Australia’s Struggles Continue

Missing key players like Sam Kerr, Australia lacked attacking firepower and struggled to cope with Japan’s technical superiority. The Matildas failed to register any significant chances, and their defensive frailties were ruthlessly exposed.

With this victory, Japan takes an early lead in the SheBelieves Cup standings and will look to carry their momentum into their next match. Meanwhile, Australia will need to regroup quickly as they prepare for their upcoming fixture, hoping to bounce back from this heavy defeat.

Japan’s next match is against Colombia, while Australia will face the United States in what will be a crucial test for both teams.

Final Score: Japan 4-0 Australia

Goals:

• Mina Tanaka (6’, 32’)

• Maika Hamano (52’)

• Moeka Minami (75’)